Cup: A vibrant vessel of learning and creativity

A Vibrant Vessel of Learning and Creativity

Construct. Transform. Collaborate. Imagine. Who would have thought exchanges between four-year-olds and simple plastic cups would result in such intricate, creative building designs? Who would have thought that cups could be the catalyst of inquiry and theory making, naturally entangling the discrete disciplines of math, science, literacy, and digital technology? Who would have thought that cups could break down social barriers and act as agents for inclusion and relationship building? Cup is a beautiful demonstration of creative representation, and is the first of many books coming soon in the Reimagining Our Work (ROW) collection. Use the ROW collection to discover how early childhood educators in the field are reimagining their work and thinking alongside children in this innovative collection of stories. Bridgette and Angela, two masterful teacher researchers, tell the story of an unexpected co-created project of investigation. Children pursue ideas of meaning and substance with educators’ companionship and mentorship. And educators strive to understand and strengthen children’s thinking about their pursuits. It is the story of co-constructed learning at its best—inspiring you to look for, and engage in, transformations of your own.

“The story of the children, the educators, the families, and the cups embodies the conviction that education both requires and nurtures imagination, determination, vision, humility, experimentation, relationship, and listening. Bridgette, Angela, the children, and their families demonstrate the generosity, playfulness, and intellectual vitality of a community anchored by these qualities — a community alive with small acts of magic.”
– Ann Pelo and Margie Carter